A recent survey of 2,000 motorists has uncovered that a significant number enforce stringent rules for their passengers, such as no smoking, no littering, and a ban on placing feet on the dashboard. One in three drivers are so protective of their vehicles that they prevent passengers from slamming doors or getting into the car with muddy clothes on.
Some motorists have even stopped passengers from eating fast food inside their cars, while others do not allow food of any kind. Drivers who cherish their car ‘like a baby’ are determined to maintain its spotless appearance by keeping it clean and tiday and not parking it near other cars where it could get scratched.
This research was commissioned by Turtle Wax’s to launch its ‘You Are How You Car’ campaign, which aims to highlight how you treat your car represents how you show up in the world.
Matthew Chapman, director of global portfolio for the car care company, said: “For many people, a car is so much more than just a way to get from A to B – it’s a passion, a project and a point of pride.”
He added: “Whether it’s keeping the paintwork pristine, upgrading the tech or splashing out on premium fuel, the emotional connection we have with our vehicles often drives us to spend far more than we realise.”
Drivers report feeling more at ease and even take pride in their sparkling clean cars, with some stating that it boosts their confidence. Forty percent admit that cleaning their car acts as a stress-buster or therapeutic activity.
Behavioural psychologist Jo Hemmings explained: “If we like to look our best when socialising for example – or even just a trip to the shops – then the chances are, it’s the same for people who present their car with an equal level of high standards.”
“It’s also about impression management,” she continued. “A pristine car says something about the way that we live and what we’d like others to think about us. It speaks of efficiency, organisation, enjoyment and self-respect.”
Matthew Chapman added: “Whether it’s paying extra for ceramic coating, refusing to eat or drink in the car, or insisting that passengers ‘mind the doors’, these little rituals all add up to a clear message: this car matters as it is a reflection of me.”
WHAT YOUR MOTOR REVEALS ABOUT YOU ACCORDING TO JO HEMMINGS:
A Pristine Interior – a need for control and calm
If your car is spotless inside – no crumbs, no clutter, even the dashboard gleams – it often signals someone who yearns for control, order and mental clarity. You’ll likely find a clean environment calming and use that to deal with external stress. It can also indicate conscientiousness and pride in personal standards.
Firm Passenger Rules – strong boundaries and assertive
If you ask people to clean their shoes, ban food and drink and are strict about no door slamming for example, you are likely to be assertive, self-aware and value respect for your space. You take ownership of your environment, whether that’s your home, your workspace or your car.
A Messy Car Interior – a creative, free-spirited mindset
If your car is chaotic and you’re totally fine with that, it suggests a personality that leans toward spontaneity, creativity and maybe a disorganised approach to life. You often value experiences over aesthetics and may prioritise emotional connection over outward appearances.
A Gleaming Exterior – image-conscious and socially aware
If your car is always washed and waxed with spotless windows, you’re likely to be image-conscious and attentive to how you’re perceived. You value first (and subsequent) impressions and see your car as an extension of your personal identity. You may also have a competitive or status-aware streak.
No Rules at All – easy-going, possibly reckless
If your passengers can eat, drink, play loud music and travel in muddy clothes, you probably prioritise comfort and connection over control. You might be open and flexible, but there’s a chance that your slapdash approach might spill over into carelessness.